Fireflies

Scripture for Today: Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before people, so that they can see your good deeds and give honor to your Father in heaven.”

Fireflies are so intriguing! When they light up a tree it is magical and looks like a fairyland. Up close they are not so pretty, being a winged beetle. I have only seen them twice: once in Kentucky as a child and more recently in Michigan on a Fourth of July. I was more interested in the firefly show than the fireworks!

What is so interesting about their light is that the chemical reaction that produces it does not produce heat. They glow without wasting any energy. All one hundred percent of their energy goes into making their light. The purpose of their glow is to attract, either a mate or their prey. Their light attracts me too although I do not fit either category!

Our verse for today talks about the light of our good deeds. When our kindness to others is done to give honor to the Heavenly Father, we shine as lights. In a dark and selfish world our lives stand out and shine. The purpose of our light is not to attract people to ourselves, but to our Lord. We are to be open about the reasons behind our giving to others. It is not about me. It is about Him.

People see a difference when we do not look to be thanked or recompensed for what we do for others. There is no personal agenda behind our actions. Public accolades are nice to receive but are never the goal. Our light is to pierce the darkness and point others to Christ.